Discovering New Adventures in Good Night Forest
Minnetrista Museum & Gardens is a place where curiosity thrives and discovery never ends. From the beauty of our gardens to the tranquility of our trails, every visit offers opportunities to learn, play, and connect with nature. Our recent exhibition, Good Night Forest, extends that experience indoors, creating an immersive environment that captures the wonder of the natural world for guests of all ages.
Background
Developed in collaboration with Indiana State Museum & Historic Sites (ISMHS) and through the support of the Ball Brothers Foundation and George and Frances Ball Foundation, Good Night Forest is an invitation to become familiar with outside spaces before venturing into them. ISMHS Chief Officer of Engagement, Brian Mancuso, noted that the exhibition always had children at the core of its story, imagining them visiting a national park or forest at dusk.
Nocturnal Displays
Good Night Forest is filled with interactive stations that spark curiosity and encourage learning through play. Each stop along the way helps visitors feel more comfortable exploring the mysteries of the night—turning an unfamiliar environment into one of wonder and discovery.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll find inside:
Starry Night Campsite—Crawl into the safety of a tent, cast playful shadows, and imagine your own starlit adventure.
Campfire Tales—Gather around a crackling campfire, swap stories, and roast pretend marshmallows with friends and family.
Midnight Snack Spot—Whip up a late-night snack with fruits and treats left behind on the picnic table.
The Moonlit Shore—Step to the edge of the river and admire the busy work of a beaver family under the moonlight.
The Care Taker’s Hut—Explore the study space of a forest caretaker, where notes and tools reveal the secrets of nocturnal wildlife.
Firefly Meadow—Follow the flickering paths of fireflies, listen to their gentle tunes, and dance to their colorful glow as they twinkle around you.
Twilight Trail—Brave the darkest trail, discover the sights and sounds of nighttime animals. Don’t forget your flashlight!
Good Night Forest is open now through November 2, 2025—just in time for the shorter days and earlier sunsets. This timing gives children the perfect opportunity to explore, play, and learn not to fear the dark. With flashlights in hand on the Twilight Trail, they’ll practice identifying the sounds and animals that fill the night.
Although designed with children in mind, the exhibition is a space for all ages to explore, play, dance, and feel young again. Each station offers its own unique sense of fun, so everyone is sure to find a favorite. The best way to discover yours? Visit again and again—you’ll notice something new every time!